New chiefs have been confirmed to lead Cumbria’s fire service and police force.
Rick Ogden has been named as the next chief fire officer for Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service.
Mr Ogden is the current assistant chief fire officer and was chosen as the preferred candidate by Police, Fire and Crime Peter McCall following interviews earlier this month. His appointment was confirmed by the Police, Fire and Crime Panel this week.
He will take on the role of chief fire officer on a temporary basis of 12 months.
Mr Ogden, who joined Cumbria Fire Service from the London Fire Brigade in 2022, said: “I am honoured to be given the opportunity to lead Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service.
“Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is an excellent organisation with dedicated and driven firefighters and staff and I look forward to working with them, and the commissioner, to continue to build the service that we deliver to the public.”
Meanwhile, Rob Carden was confirmed by the panel to become Cumbria Constabulary’s new chief constable. He takes over from Michelle Skeer, who is retiring from the role.
Currently deputy chief constable, he joined the Cumbria force in 2022.
He said: “I am honoured to have been appointed Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary.
“Since transferring to Cumbria from Merseyside over 12 months ago, I have witnessed first-hand the commitment and dedication of officers and staff, who have warmly welcomed me and offered unwavering support through a period of significant organisational change.
“I am acutely aware of the challenges currently impacting public confidence in policing and am committed to inspiring a workforce that has the highest professional standards and prides itself on delivering public service, safeguarding the vulnerable, investigating crime and bringing offenders to justice. I aim to continue the legacy of Michelle and lead a Constabulary that endeavours to deliver the best possible policing service to our local communities.”
